FloridaCommerce has reported an increase in private sector employment in the Pensacola metro area, with 2,500 jobs added over the year by December 2024. The professional and business services sector saw the most significant growth, contributing 1,100 new positions.
The unemployment rate in Pensacola rose slightly to 3.2% from 3.1% in December 2023. The labor force experienced a decrease of 0.6%, equivalent to a reduction of 1,460 individuals.
Statewide, Florida's private employment grew by 17,900 jobs from the previous month. The state has demonstrated resilience following Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton, with job creation continuing robustly. Over the year, Florida's private sector employment increased by 122,800 jobs at a rate of 1.4%, surpassing the national growth rate of 1.3%. The statewide unemployment rate remained steady at 3.4%, below the national average of 4.1%.
J. Alex Kelly, Florida Secretary of Commerce, credited Governor DeSantis' leadership for economic stability and job growth: “Under Governor DeSantis’ decisive leadership, Florida continues to make gains for job seekers and job creators.”
Since SB 1718 was signed into law by Governor DeSantis in May 2023, leisure and hospitality have reached record levels with an increase of over 29,500 jobs from one year ago.
The trade, transportation and utilities sectors led monthly job gains among major industries with an addition of 4,400 jobs (+0.2%), followed by professional and business services (3,900 jobs) and leisure and hospitality (3,100 jobs).
Job seekers can access resources through platforms like Employ Florida for training and education opportunities or CareerSource Florida for personalized career support.
Florida continues to provide numerous opportunities for those seeking employment across various regions including Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Miami among others.
For further details on regional employment data or labor market insights visit Florida Insight online.